In a blend of technological innovation and historical preservation, the city of Shanghai has successfully relocated and returned a century-old Shikumen complex known as the Zhangyuan block using a coordinated team of 432 robotic movers.
The relocation process began on May 19, 2025, when engineers deployed hundreds of robotic movers to carefully lift and transport the 7,500-ton Shikumen complex. The movement was deliberately slow, approximately 10 meters per day, to minimize structural stress and reduce the risk of damage to the historic brick architecture. By June 7, 2025, just under three weeks later, the complex was returned to its original site, allowing developers to begin work on a subterranean space spanning more than 53,000 square meters.
The underground development beneath the Zhangyuan block includes plans for commercial and cultural facilities, a parking garage, and direct access to three Shanghai Metro lines—Lines 2, 12, and 13. These additions are expected to transform the area into a vibrant urban hub, without sacrificing its historical identity.
The engineering team responsible for the project, led by Shanghai Construction No. 2 (Group), employed a sophisticated combination of robotics and smart technologies to carry out the relocation. The robotic movers were designed specifically for this kind of confined and delicate work, capable of maneuvering through narrow alleys and uneven terrain without disturbing the fragile structure. Some of the robots were used for drilling through tight passageways inside the complex, while others handled soil excavation using folding mechanical arms. Each robot was guided by deep learning algorithms, which helped them identify different soil types and detect underground obstacles in real-time.
To ensure the move went smoothly, engineers used point-cloud scanning to capture a detailed 3D model of the site. This data was integrated into Building Information Modeling (BIM) software, which generated highly accurate blueprints and simulated potential issues that could arise during the relocation. This level of precision was essential to preserving the integrity of the century-old complex during both its removal and return.
According to project officials, the slow pace of the relocation was intentional. The priority was always preservation, not speed. Their approach successfully combined traditional conservation goals with cutting-edge tools, achieving a balance that many urban planners and heritage advocates strive for.
Though the Shikumen complex now rests back in its original place, the underground construction work has only just begun. While no official completion date has been announced, the foundation has been laid both literally and figuratively for a project that respects the past while building toward the future.
